A Netflix cooking show is changing how people travel — and restaurants are seeing bookings jump 303%
By Sydney Goh
Published on March 22, 2026.
The South Korean Netflix show "Culinary Class Wars" has seen a significant increase in bookings for restaurants in its second season, with reservations increasing by 303% five weeks after the show's premiere. The show categorizes chefs as "hidden masters" and "White Spoons" (elite) chefs, reflecting the dichotomy between street food and Michelin-starred experiences. This is particularly appealing to millennials and Generation Z, who want to experience cultures other than their own. South Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has announced a shift towards food tourism in its 2026 strategy. In Singapore, food was a major driver of record tourism spending between January and September 2025, with tourist receipts increasing by 15% compared to the same period in 2024. Hotel brands are responding to this growing culinary interest, with nearly 1 in 5 travelers specifically seeking out new restaurants or culinary experiences, with 60% of luxury travelers prioritizing hotels with good food options. Hotel Capella in Singapore offers guided tours of hawker centers and local markets close to its flagship hotel.
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